Johannesburg Tourist Attractions

Apartheid Museum

The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg is a site that records the history of racial segregation in South Africa. It serves as an essential reminder of the effects of apartheid on the country and its people. Situated close to Gold Reef City amusement park, the museum allows its visitors to embark on an interactive and engaging journey through the history of apartheid. It provides a comprehensive and exciting experience.

The museum showcases a wide range of topics, such as the background of segregation in South Africa, the government's role in apartheid legislation, and the resistance against it. The museum also has displays that illustrate the everyday lives of South Africans during apartheid, including educational, housing, and employment opportunities.

The Apartheid Museum contains a captivating display labeled "Long Walk to Freedom," which details the life and remarkable accomplishments of Nelson Mandela. Undoubtedly, this exhibit is one of the most riveting spectacles within the museum. The display includes items, pictures, and interactive activities that provide guests an insight into Nelson Mandela's life and the significant effect he had in South Africa & globally.

In conclusion, the Apartheid Museum offers a valuable learning opportunity for its visitors. It gives them an insight into the history of apartheid in South Africa and its lasting effect on the region.

The entrance fee for the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg is 115 South African Rand for adults (approximately USD 8) and 80 South African Rand for students and senior citizens (about USD 5.50). Verifying the current pricing information is always recommended, as it may have changed since the last time it was checked. I suggest visiting the museum's website or contacting them for this purpose. Furthermore, specific discounted rates may be available for group visits or particular occasions.

Hector Pieterson Memorial

The Hector Pieterson Memorial in Johannesburg is a museum and a monument dedicated to the 1976 Soweto Uprising. It also honors the passing of Hector Pieterson, who was only twelve years old when he lost his life during the protest. The museum is in Orlando West, Soweto, near where Pieterson was killed.

The museum presents displays that show the details of the Soweto Uprising, which commenced as a peaceful student demonstration against using Afrikaans as the medium of teaching in schools. Tragically, the police responded to the protest with excessive force, and many students, including Pieterson, lost their lives. The museum houses photographs, artifacts, and audiovisual displays that give a detailed account of the events before the uprising and its aftermath.

The monument erected in memory of the victims of the Soweto Uprising includes a sculpture and a wall of remembrance. Individuals can pay their respects to the deceased and leave tribute messages at this sacred site.

The Hector Pieterson Memorial is an important reminder of the great lengths South Africans went to in their fight against apartheid. It offers an unforgettable experience and emphasizes the need for education, justice, and respect for human rights.

South African locals are charged R20 for admission, pensioners R10, students R10, and children R5; those under six years old do not require a fee. International visitors incur a fee of R50, whereas students and children (under six years old) pay R30 & 15, respectively - no charge for those under 6.

Pilanesberg Nature Reserve Game Safari

Pilanesberg Nature Reserve is one of the most frequently visited game reserves around South Africa's North West Province and can be easily reached in a two-hour drive from Johannesburg. Tourists come to this place for an enriching safari experience and to witness some of the continent's iconic wildlife.

This reserve is a habitat for the "Big Five" game animals (lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and buffalo) and other creatures such as giraffes, zebras, hyenas & antelopes. Tourists can participate in game drives at the reserve to get a good look at the nearby animals. They could also join guided walking safaris for a more engaging and involved experience.

Accommodation within the reserve varies from luxurious lodgings to campsites, allowing guests to select whatever fits their requirements and budget best.

To ensure you experience the unique wildlife at Pilanesberg Nature Reserve, it is advisable to make reservations in advance, particularly during busy periods. The reserve stays open throughout the year, but the dry season (May-September) is said to be the optimal time for viewing animals as they are more active and visible during that period.

Access fees to the Pilanesberg Nature Reserve will depend on one's nationality and the vehicle used to enter the park. South African citizens and international visitors have different rates and varying fees for different types of cars.

South African citizens aged 12 and above must pay ZAR 85 daily, whereas children below 12 must pay ZAR 40 per day.

South African Development Community (SADC) nationals with valid passports have a separate fee structure; adults are ZAR 170 per person per day, and children under 12 are ZAR 85 per child, also daily.

International Visitors are charged an amount of ZAR 340 per person per day and ZAR 170 per child (under 12 years) every day.

Besides the charge for entry, there may also be additional fees for organized game drives or other attractions inside the park. It would help if you contacted the park management or your tour guide to get up-to-date information regarding costs and booking policies.